The Oregon Ducks have climbed their way onto the national stage of college football in large part because of players that were not blue chip prospects. At least not to the recruiting services.[details]

2005 (Freshman): Oregon’s second-leading tackler and top returnee not only garnered honorable mention all-Pacific-10 Conference acclaim as a rookie, he also earned first-team Freshman All-America reviews by The Sporting News and Rivals.com. Picked as the league’s Defensive Freshman of the Year (The Sporting News), he led the team in tackles against Washington (11) and Washington State (9) while being credited in double figures on four occasions. Included were 12 stops in post-season play vs. Oklahoma. Yet no performance was better than equalling his collegiate-best 12 tackles vs. USC as he was named squad’s special teams player-of-the-week. Repeated the weekly honor vs. the Huskies, and earned team’s top defensive acclaim at Arizona State. Intercepted passes against Washington and Arizona, and had a second theft vs. the Wildcats nullified due to a penalty. Also forced a fumble in Tucson. Credited with a team-high 17 of his tackles on punt and kickoff coverage units. Following the year, was the recipient of the school’s Len Casanova Award as the program’s top newcomer.

2004 (Redshirt): Garnered scout team defensive player-of-the-week accolades for aiding preparations heading into Oklahoma game, as well as special teams plaudits vs. Arizona and UCLA.

2003 (Redshirt):HIGH SCHOOL — The two-time first-team all-Baseline League pick rated among top 90 prospects in California by SuperPrep magazine after helping lead the Cougars to a 7-4 record his senior year. Excelled at wide receiver and free safety in 2003 to rank as his team’s second-leading tackler and receiving runner-up, recording 74 tackles, nine receptions for 209 yards and two TDs. Posted eight or more tackles five times, including a season-high 12 vs. Alta Loma. Also contributed two interceptions, forced two fumbles and recovered two others.

The Good: Possesses a thick, muscular build with good upper and lower body power. Displays good instincts in the deep half and consistently reads and reacts quickly to plays. Is an explosive hitter with the ability to dislodge ball from carrier. A coordinated tackler in the open field who redirects cleanly and breaks down well in space. Can act as a fourth linebacker in the box.The Bad: Lacks great height for the position and range in the deep half. Doesn't possess great speed and struggles transitioning out of his back-pedal. Isn't real comfortable running with his back to the ball.

Positives: Mature. Tough and aggressive. Good awareness. Has a feel for the game. Solid build. Quick feet. Good movement skills. Quick to support the run and is forceful in the box. Solid tackler. Hard-shouldered taking on guards and setting the edges in contain. Stalks the quarterback with his eyes and jumps routes. Can match up with tight ends in coverage. On-field leader - can line up a defense. Standout special-teams performer and has some return ability. Bench-pressed 225 pounds 25 times at the Combine.Negatives: Does not explode through tackles. Shows rigidity in his movement. Often seemed a step late to the pile as a senior - almost looked like he was trying to preserve his body. Does not always take proper angles. Ball skills are lacking. Does not have the deep-hash instincts or overall range to effectively man the deep half.Summary: Reliable, functional box safety who does not "wow" from a physical standpoint but has enough foot quickness and toughness to contribute immediately on special teams and earn a starting job inside.Grade: Second-to-third-round talent.